Getting Mechanical Breakdown Insurance on Old Cars

When looking to purchase mechanical breakdown insurance, you must understand that most vehicles older than 18 months will not qualify. If your car does qualify, these are the steps to find suitable coverage.

Step 1 – The Dealership

If you purchased your used vehicle at a dealership, ask the salesman or finance manager if they offer an extended warranty or a mechanical breakdown insurance policy. Usually they will offer it before you get to ask. If they do not offer, ask if they have some insurance company they can recommend.

Step 2 – Your Finance Company

If you are obtaining a car loan from a bank or finance company, many offer auto repair insurance to add to your loan agreement. This is a good choice if you use a finance company not affiliated with the car dealership or if your purchasing the car from a private seller. They do this to protect their customers over the length of the loan. They will probably request you to have the car inspected by one of their recommended mechanics to list any defects or excessive wear to the vehicle.

Step 3 – Your Insurance Company

Just as finance companies want to protect their customers, many insurance companies offer auto repair insurance for the vehicles they are covering for general coverage. They will also include the amount for the mechanical breakdown insurance into the financing of your regular insurance plan.

Step 4 – Search the Internet

There are companies that will offer mechanical repair policies for used cars. These can be found using the Internet. Use such search terms such as: “used car repair insurance,” “mechanical breakdown insurance” and/or “used car warranties.”

No matter where you find your policy or plan, take your time to read what the plan covers, excludes and any restrictions the policy may contain. Many items will not be covered and you might have to use their selected repair shops. They might require you to use a repair facility that is too far and inconvenient for you to use or use a shop that may be less qualified to do the work.